If you love warm, cheesy biscuits, then these Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits are for you! In just a few simple steps, you can create fluffy, buttery delights that pair perfectly with any meal. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a cozy dinner, these biscuits will impress everyone at the table. Ready to dive into a tasty recipe that’s easy to master? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
To make Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits, you need some simple ingredients. Here’s the full list:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ cup cold butter, cubed
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup diced ham (preferably smoked or honey-cured)
– 1 cup whole milk
– 4 tablespoons melted butter (for swimming)
These ingredients work together to create fluffy and tasty biscuits. The cold butter is key; it helps make the biscuits soft and flaky. The sharp cheddar cheese adds a nice kick, while the ham brings in savory flavors. You can choose smoked or honey-cured ham based on your taste preference.
The garlic powder and black pepper give a subtle warmth to each bite. This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for any meal. If you want to explore more details, check out the Full Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it.
– In a large bowl, mix together the dry ingredients: 2 cups of flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk them until they blend well.
– Next, add ½ cup of cold butter, cut into small cubes, to the dry mix. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until it looks like coarse crumbs.
Combining Ingredients
– Now, add 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of diced ham to the bowl. Stir them into the mixture evenly.
– Pour in 1 cup of whole milk and mix gently. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are fine.
Baking
– Pour 4 tablespoons of melted butter evenly into the bottom of your greased baking dish.
– Using a spoon, drop the biscuit dough onto the butter. Leave space between each dough ball, aiming for about 12-15 biscuits total.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes. Look for a golden brown color and fluffy texture when they are done.
You can find more details in the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Biscuits
To make the best Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits, you need cold butter. This keeps the biscuits flaky and light. When mixing the butter, use your fingers or a pastry cutter. Aim for coarse crumbs, not a smooth mixture.
Avoid overmixing the dough. A few lumps are okay. Overmixing makes the biscuits tough. You want a soft, tender dough that puffs up nicely while baking.
Presentation Tips
Serve these biscuits warm in a rustic basket. Line it with a cloth napkin for a nice touch. Drizzle extra melted butter on top for added richness. Garnish with fresh chopped chives. This adds color and a hint of flavor.
Baking Tips
Baking time can vary by oven. Start with 18 minutes, but check for golden brown tops. If your biscuits need more time, add a minute or two.
Ensure even baking by rotating the baking dish halfway through. This helps all the biscuits bake uniformly. You want a fluffy, golden result every time.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can swap out ingredients to make these biscuits your own. Try using different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky flavor. If you want to switch up the meat, turkey or crispy bacon works great too. Each swap changes the taste and keeps it fresh.
Healthier Options
If you want a healthier biscuit, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Whole wheat adds fiber and nutrients. You can also reduce the butter or use a healthier fat option, like olive oil or avocado oil. These changes can make your biscuits a bit lighter without losing flavor.
Seasonal Twists
Seasonal herbs and spices can add a fun twist. Try adding fresh rosemary or thyme for a burst of flavor. You can also mix in vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. These additions boost nutrition and add color to your dish.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your ham and cheese butter swim biscuits fresh, store them in the fridge. Place the biscuits in an airtight container. This keeps them soft and tasty for a few days. If you use a glass or plastic container, make sure it has a tight seal. You can also wrap them in foil or plastic wrap for extra protection.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some biscuits for later, freezing works well. First, let the baked biscuits cool completely. Then, pack them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to push out as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. When you want to eat them, take out a biscuit and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This gives them a nice, crispy texture.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, these biscuits will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you freeze them, they can last for up to 3 months. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If they smell off or have a strange texture, it’s best to toss them out. Enjoy your biscuits while they’re still at their best! For the full recipe, check out the provided link.
FAQs
How do I make Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits from scratch?
To make Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits from scratch, gather your ingredients. Start with flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix these dry ingredients in a large bowl. Next, add cold butter cubes and mix until you see coarse crumbs. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and diced ham. Pour in whole milk and mix gently. Don’t overmix—it’s okay if the dough has lumps. Finally, pour melted butter into a greased dish and drop spoonfuls of dough. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 18-20 minutes.
Can I use different types of cheese in the recipe?
Yes, you can use different types of cheese. While sharp cheddar is great, pepper jack or gouda add a nice twist. Each cheese brings its unique flavor. Experiment with different kinds to find your favorite. Just keep the total amount of cheese the same as the recipe calls for.
Is it possible to make these biscuits ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough in advance. Mix the dry ingredients and add the butter, cheese, and ham. Keep the mixture in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the milk and follow the rest of the steps. This saves time on busy mornings.
What can I serve with Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits?
These biscuits pair well with many dishes. Serve them with a warm bowl of soup or chili. They complement breakfast eggs, too. Try them with a fresh salad for lunch. You can also enjoy them on their own, warm and buttery, for a tasty snack.
How do I know when the biscuits are done baking?
Check the biscuits after about 18 minutes. They should be golden brown and fluffy. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. If they look pale, give them a few more minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
For more detailed steps, refer to the Full Recipe.
In this article, we explored how to make Ham and Cheese Butter Swim Biscuits. We covered all the ingredients you need, step-by-step instructions, and tips to perfect your biscuits. You can customize with different cheeses or meats too. Remember to store them properly for best taste. These biscuits are easy to make and perfect for any meal. Enjoy trying these variations and impress your friends and family with your baking skills!
